ARCHIVED SERMONS, JAN-MAR 2012

“Life After ‘Death’ (Part 4)” March 25, Pastor Kurt

God placed Queen Esther in a position of influence. She faced her fears and doubts and eventually said “This is Mine to do.” No more excuses. No more passing the buck. No more resistance. God is looking for people like Esther who will reflect, resolve, respond, and rejoice… to begin by simply asking, “Lord, what is mine to do?”

“Life After ‘Death’ (Part 3)” March 18, Pastor Kurt

Joseph, as did St. Patrick, learned to view his life story from a heavenly perspective. Each of these men understood their unique circumstances could be uniquely used by God to carry out a unique purpose to give Him honor and to accomplish something good. Jesus’ life story was no different. Do you see you life in this way?

“Life After ‘Death’ (Part 2)” March 11, Pastor Kurt and David Immel

What does it take to rebuild a life? Nehemiah answers this question as he inspired the people of Jerusalem to rebuild the ruined walls of their city. Nehemiah’s GO story begins with an interview with David Immel who shares how there is “life after drop out” as he prepares to move to work at the Peru Orphanage.

Death is more than physical. It could be the death of a dream, a career, or a relationship. Ruth and Naomi certainly understood the myriad of emotions brought on by such death. Their response was different. Ruth demonstrates a clear resolve to keep moving, keep believing, keep serving. Ben and Janelle McLaughlin end the service sharing about their journey to Chile which began after a death.

Since the world is the shape of a circle and we sit knee to knee with hunger, thirst, slavery, disease, and disaster, God has positioned us to do something in His name. Moses was a reluctant leader who had to return to his past in order to carry out God’s mission for him. GO is closer than we think. The Purdy’s Go story reveals that.

Throughout the Bible, Abraham is commended for his faith. Genesis 12 records the story of him willing to leave behind the familiar, his family, and his fame. In similar fashion Nathan and Kristi Bucher share their GO story about their plans to serve in Haiti for the next two years.

“A Chain of Faith” February 12, Pastor Kurt

Today’s Christ-followers are links on a long chain of people of faith. Our story is linked to a greater STORY. Using Hebrews 11 as a guide for 2012, Pastor Kurt begins a year long exploration of the stories of faith recorded in Scripture and lived out in modern day times as well. In this message, St. Valentine’s devoted faith is good example of living GO at all costs. Add your link onto the chain.

Guest from Ghana, James Kofi Annan and “Prayer Chain” February 5, Pastor Kurt

Today’s services included a sermon on prayer by Pastor Kurt and a testimony of James Kofi Annan, a child slave survivor, from Ghana. Hear his story from captivity to a successful businessman to champion for freedom.

“State of the Church: IMPRESS God’s Truths” January 29, Pastor Kurt

Jesus said “GO and… make disciples, instruct, train, teach.” The question answered in this sermon is who is responsible for this. While Pastor Kurt reminds parents they are the primary disciplers of their children, he challenges all adult men and women to be a person of influence in the lives of younger couples and parents. Everyone has something to contribute.

“State of the Church: IMITATE God’s Love” January 22, Pastor Kurt

God is drawing us with His love and has enabled us to love like Him. The question is are we truly willing to love like Jesus? For starters, what does our love look like to our spouse? This message includes an interview with a “Love and Respect” couple and the story of one mom who has seen the beauty of a Godly marriage and has been attracted to Jesus on account of what she has witnessed in MOPS.

“State of the Church: Intro” January 8, Pastor Kurt and Peru Esperanza Team

Pastor Kurt introduces the 2012 theme “GO” and theme verses: Matthew 28:18-20. “GO” is more than a mission trip and more than a project, it is a WAY OF LIFE. God’s invitation to us is to follow HiS WAY OF LIFE: Imitate His Love, Impress His Truths, Impact His World. This brief introduction is followed by a missions presentation from the Peru Esperanza team.

“Greater Than Solomon” January 1, Pastor Ron

Up until Jesus, Solomon was probably the smartest person who ever lived, but Jesus is greater than him. Jesus is the smartest person who ever lived, He’s very competent, and He’s well worthy of our trust. He can do a much better job of directing our lives that we can.